Neolithic 02-04

Gobekli Tepe Overview

• Gobekli Tepe is an archaeological site located in Turkey.

• Dated between 95-100 BCE (Before Common Era) and approximately 8000 BCE.

• The site is associated with the early Neolithic period, specifically the Pre-Pottery Age A.

Neolithic Period

• Neolithic means "New Stone Age."

  • Lithic refers to stone.

  • Neo means new.

• The term distinguishes the neolithic era from the preceding Paleolithic era.

Pre-Pottery Age

• The Pre-Pottery Age A is significant because it predates the invention of pottery.

• Important for understanding cultural developments during this time.

• Archaeological investigations had previously only excavated a few feet down, leading to initial misconceptions about the site.

Excavations and Discoveries

• Initial assessments believed the large stones were tomb markers.

• Archaeologist Klaus Schmidt led further investigations and discovered T-shaped pillars.

• The T-shaped pillars are made of stone and vary in condition and completeness.

• Several of these pillars are arranged in circular formations.

Structure of the Site

• The circular configurations consist of:

  • T-shaped pillars organized around the perimeter.

  • A central pillar that is typically taller than the surrounding pillars.

  • Multi-tiered construction with horizontal layers of stone (courses).

  • Benches connecting the pillars around the circle.

• Each circle shares similar elements such as the perimeter, central pillar, and decorative features.

Decorations and Carvings

• Pillars often feature carvings of animals including:

  • Lizards

  • Vultures

  • Possible depictions of foxes or other creatures.

• Some figures depicted on pillars wear loincloths, suggesting that clothing was part of their culture.